Bloom Where You’re Planted: The Best Ornamental Plants for Sarasota & Manatee Counties
By Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control
Here in beautiful Sarasota and Manatee counties, we’re lucky to live in one of the most plant-friendly climates in the country. Sunshine? Check. Warm breezes? Absolutely. Occasional downpours? Nature’s irrigation system! But when it comes to choosing the right ornamental plants for your landscape, Florida’s tropical climate can still be a bit tricky. That’s where we come in.
At Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control, we know that a well-curated garden not only looks great but also boosts curb appeal, attracts pollinators, and makes your outdoor space feel like a private paradise. So, if you’re wondering what to plant for the ultimate Florida-friendly landscape, here’s our go-to list of ornamental winners:
🌿 1. Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum)
Why we love them: These vibrant, tropical beauties pack a punch with their multi-colored leaves in shades of red, orange, yellow, and green. They thrive in full sun, making them perfect for Sarasota’s sunny yards.
Pro Tip: Keep them out of strong wind and give them some occasional shade to prevent leaf scorch.
🌸 2. Hibiscus
Why we love them: Few plants say “Florida” like the large, flamboyant blooms of the hibiscus. With hundreds of cultivars, you can choose from pinks, reds, oranges, and even purples. They’re low-maintenance and love the heat.
Bonus: They attract hummingbirds and butterflies!
🌴 3. Coontie Palm (Zamia integrifolia)
Why we love them: Native to Florida and nearly indestructible, the coontie palm is actually a cycad—not a true palm. It’s perfect for low-maintenance landscapes and works great as a border or foundation plant.
Eco-Note: It’s the larval host plant for the endangered Atala butterfly!
🌼 4. Firebush (Hamelia patens)
Why we love it: Firebush is a native Florida shrub that blooms year-round in our climate. It produces fiery red-orange tubular flowers that are a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds.
Westfall’s Wisdom: Prune it back in late winter to keep it full and bushy.
🌺 5. Bougainvillea
Why we love them: Want color? Bougainvillea delivers! These flowering machines explode with brilliant color throughout the year and are drought-tolerant once established. Great for fences, trellises, or even hanging baskets.
Word of caution: They come with thorns, so plant with care!
🌱 6. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
Why we love it: If you’re after a soft, romantic look with minimal upkeep, Muhly grass is your go-to. In the fall, it puts on a show with clouds of pink-purple plumes. It’s native, drought-tolerant, and pest-resistant.
Landscape Tip: Plant in masses for maximum impact.
🌵 7. Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
Why we love it: This exotic-looking succulent loves Florida’s heat and rewards you with thick, twisted trunks and bold, trumpet-shaped flowers. It’s perfect for pots or small sunny garden spaces.
Be Aware: It contains a toxic sap, so be cautious with pets and kids around.
🌼 Bonus Round: Pest Control Matters!
What’s a beautiful landscape without protection? At Westfall’s, we offer specialized ornamental pest control to keep aphids, whiteflies, scale insects, and fungal issues from ruining your garden party. Healthy plants are happy plants—and they start with smart prevention.
Ready to Refresh Your Florida Landscape?
Whether you're redoing your whole yard or just adding a few pops of color, the right ornamental plants make all the difference. And when paired with proper care—and pest control from your friends at Westfall’s—your Sarasota or Manatee yard will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Got questions or want help protecting your landscape investment? Give us a call or schedule a visit. Let’s make your garden the best on the block—Florida style.
Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control: Family-owned. Florida-focused. Beauty-obsessed.